Girls volleyball: Scouting DuPage County
Addison Trail Blazers
Coach: Katie Inzinga (5th season)
Last year’s record: 11-20, 4-2 West Suburban Gold
Top returning players: Giuliana Gallo (5-11, jr., OH), Frankie Rohlfing (6-2, jr., MB)
Key newcomers: Olivia Varghese (5-2, jr., DS),
Worth noting: Addison Trail returns 9 varsity players from last year’s squad, “who bring maturity, experience and intensity to our team,” Inzinga said. “Our newcomers have stepped into practice seamlessly, bringing a competitive energy to the team and program.” Gallo, a team captain, had 209 kills and 53 aces last season, while Rohlfing had 34 blocks. Both enter their third year on varsity. Inzinga has high hopes for seniors Julia Ebbole (OH), Gianna Uribe (DS) and Andrea Perez (DS). “Our girls are smart about where they are placing the ball and have grown stronger, hitting a heavier ball,” Inzinga said. “Our setters are making smart decisions to connect with a variety of hits. Our defense is scrappy and the girls work well together to pursue every ball to stretch plays.” Inzinga noted Addison Trail is looking to improve its WSC Gold record with Downers Grove South and Willowbrook being key contenders on the circuit.
Benet Academy Redwings
Coach: Brad Baker (17th season, 634-69)
Last year’s record: 40-2, Class 4A state runner-up
Top returning players: Brooklynne Brass (5-10, sr., OH), Ellie Stiernagle (6-1, sr., S), Sophia Chinetti (6-0, sr., OH), Lynney Tarnow (6-5, sr., MB), Molly Welge (6-3, sr., MB), Grace Jermak (5-10, sr., OH), Abby Lee (5-6, sr., libero)
Worth noting: The cat’s meow of area girls volleyball teams. Benet has won 17 regional titles in a row, appeared in 15 sectional title matches (11 wins) and has won a state trophy in 10 of the past 17 seasons, including 5 of the last 6 years the state tournament has been held (4 state titles since 2011, last coming in 2019). Brass (Maryland commit), Stiernagle (Northwestern), Chinetti (Rhode Island) and Tarnow (Wisconsin) are returning starters. Benet has a total of 7 players back from the state runner-up, including Welge (Marquette), Jermak (Wisconsin-Stevens Point) and Lee (Emory). They are joined by 11 new players. Benet again will be facing the state’s elite with matches scheduled against Marist, St. Charles North, Lincoln-Way East and Normal West to name a few, as well as Skutt Catholic out of Nebraska.
Downers Grove North Trojans
Coach: Mark Wasik
Last season’s record: 25-12, 6-0 in West Suburban Silver (champions); lost to Downers Grove South 25-13, 23-25, 25-21 in 4A Willowbrook sectional final
Top returning players: Nora Benjamins, sr. MB; Kelley Crowley, sr. OH; Ellery Cabaj, so. S; Nicole Liu, jr. OH; Rylie Marshall, jr. OPP; Sienna Shelton, jr. MB
Key newcomers: Madi Mastalarz, fr. S; Samantha Hancock, so. MB/OPP; College commitments: Benjamins (Holy Cross), Crowley (Northern Michigan)
Worth noting: Coming off their first regional title since 2021, the Trojans return Benjamins (176 kills, team-best 67 blocks and .307 attack percentage in 2024), who was IVCA 4A honorable mention all-state and All-WSC Silver, and bring a healthier outlook after 2023 all-conference Crowley (71 kills, 67 digs) and Marshall (17 kills) were limited by injuries last season. Cabaj (team-high 608 assists, 197 digs) made a strong freshman debut, and Liu (133 kills, 47 digs) and Shelton (39 kills, 37 blocks) played regularly. “We expect to be competitive in a conference that will be even more competitive and given that we play one of the most competitive schedules in the state,” Wasik said.
Downers Grove South Mustangs
Coach: Madisen Babich
Last season’s record: 26-14, 6-0 in West Suburban Gold (champions); lost to Lockport 23-25, 25-9, 25-22 in 4A Riverside-Brookfield supersectional
Top returning players: Jayda Dixon, sr. P; Lauren Curran, sr. P; Keegan O’Keefe, sr. L; Jen Curran, jr. MH; Claire Cushing, jr. MB; Niya Mincheva, sr. S; Leah Blaylock, jr. DS; Sydney Dalton, sr. DS; Ciara Steward, jr. RS; Juliana Padavic, sr. DS
Key newcomers: Bridget Bastian, jr. S; Zoe Grams, jr. MH College commitments: Dixon (St. Thomas - Texas) and Jen Curran (New Hampshire)
Worth noting: The Mustangs’ breakthrough 2024 climaxed with their first sectional title since 2004 and first Gold and regional titles since 2019. “We have the 10 that went through that and the first minute of Day 1 of camp, you could just feel the energy,” Babich said. All-WSC Gold selections Dixon (233 kills, 132 digs) and Lauren Curran (146 kills, 22 blocks) were second and third, respectively, in kills. Among other returning starters, O’Keefe led in digs (306) and serve receptions (436), Jen Curran (43) and Cushing (41) were first and second in blocks and O’Keefe (41) and Blaylock (38) were first and second in aces. Lauren Curran moves to outside hitter and Mincheva and Bastian will run a two-setter offense.
Glenbard East Rams
Coach: Bradley Cardott (5th season)
Last year’s record: 12-24, 2-4 (5th Upstate Eight East)
Top returning players: Belle McDermott (6-0, jr., OH), Natalie Slusher (5-10, sr., S), Jess Larson (5-5, jr., libero)
Key newcomers: Claire Bolda (5-10, jr., MB), Bridget Crocker (6-1, jr., MB), Taylor Griffith (5-4, jr., S), Abby Michelon (5-7, soph., S-OH)
Worth noting: McDermott (253 kills, 171 digs, 40 aces, 36 blocks, 27 assists) and Slusher (551 assists, 107 digs, 36 kills) were all-UEC East honorable-mention picks. “Natalie is the glue to our team,” Cardott said. “Jess Larson has gained consistency. She is everywhere on the court, getting a touch on nearly every ball in her direction. She’s very scrappy on the defensive side.” Cardott said McDermott and Larson, both juniors, are on college radars. “Belle is our go-to hitter all 6 rotations,” the coach said. “She is a tremendous leader.” East graduated 7 seniors (3 starters), but has 7 returning players. “Our returning core gained valuable experience last season, which should bode well for us this season,” Cardott said. “We should compete with the top teams in our conference.”
Glenbard North Panthers
Coach: Carrie McCann (2nd season)
Last year’s record: 11-24, 0-7 DuKane
Top returning players: Mary Kolozsy (5-9, sr., OH), Nikolina Petkovic (5-0, sr., OH), Abby Graf (5-7, jr., S)
Key newcomer: Lucy Perez (5-4, jr., DS)
Worth noting: North has 6 returning players, including the likes of Kolozsy, Petkovic and Graf. Petkovic was an all-DuKane pick last year and Kolozsy is a prospect for a few colleges, McCann noted. “With six returning players, they all have a great sense of playing with each other on the court,” McCann said. “I have confidence we will be strong at the net both offensively and defensively. Most of our offensive players are key returners. Having the experience and pace from last season and a year of club has helped them gain confidence, and strategic and aggressive swings and plays.” McCann likes what she sees up front and in the back row. “I am confident in our defense’s blocking,” she said. “We have 3 experienced middles who are quick to read the ball and create a strong front line of defense at the next. All our defensive specialists are young, but experienced and quick.”
Glenbard South Raiders
Coach: Chad Grant (15th season)
Last year’s record: 17-20, 5-1 (2nd Upstate Eight East)
Top returning players: Emma Full (5-7, jr., OH), Callie Hardtke (5-9, sr., OH), Alyna Krabec (5-3, jr., S), Molly Purse (6-0, sr., MB), Mia Abate (5-9, jr., RS)
Key newcomers: Eva Bogdanov (5-6, fresh., S), Julia Alcala (5-11, soph., MB)
Worth noting: Full (116, 129 digs, 37 aces, 22 blocks), Hardtke (116 kills, 91 digs, 37 aces, 22 blocks), Krabec (153 digs, 98 assists, 41 aces), Purse (69 kills, 47 blocks) and Abate (31 kills, 11 blocks) all saw action last season with Krabec earning all-UEC East accolades. “We are limited offensively after the graduation of Brooklynn Moore, so putting the ball to the floor will be a challenge for us,’’ Grant said. “We will need to play a style that involves tough serving, good defense and a balanced offense with limited errors. We have some players with experience, but they will have to take on much larger roles. I expect to see a lot of growth over these 2 1/2 months.” Grant said Riverside-Brookfield is a candidate to repeat as UEC East champions, but noted West Chicago and Glenbard East should be near the top as well.
Glenbard West Hilltoppers
Coach: Dan Scott
Last season’s record: 27-10, 4-2 in West Suburban Silver (2nd); lost to Wheaton Warrenville South 25-12, 25-23 in 4A WWS regional final
Top returning players: Cara Herbert, jr. S/DS; Kayla Street, sr. MH; Ella Rowe, jr. OH; Farryn Burridge, jr. MH; Francie McGann, sr. MH; Phoebe Risner, sr. DS, Erika Jensen, sr. DS
Key newcomers: Caitlyn Antonnaci, so. OH; Adria Timpone, jr. OPP; Emily Jurek, fr. OH; Grace Markey, fr. DS College commitments: Burridge (American)
Worth noting: Setter Herbert, who was 2024 IVCA 4A honorable mention all-state, and Street are third-year starters and Rowe, Burridge and McGann started last year. Herbert (703 assists, 60 kills), Rowe (214 kills and 103 digs) and Burridge (69 blocks) were category leaders and Street had 65 blocks and 145 kills. Even with 20 wins 17 of the past 18 seasons, the Hilltoppers could surprise with the progress of newcomers. “We’re just going to get better, have fun and keep building on that,” Scott said.
Hinsdale Central Red Devils
Coach: Kelly Stapleton
Last season’s record: 18-19, 2-4 in West Suburban Silver (6th); lost to Downers Grove North 25-17, 25-18 in 4A Downers North regional final
Top returning players: Nora Bergin, sr. OH; Caitlin Leddy, sr. S; Maddie Brooks, jr. OH; Kaleigh Kozlowski, jr. OH; Alyssa Barakat, so. OH; Kasey Quast, sr. OH; Bailee Yanklowitz, jr. MB
Key newcomers: Jayden Koziol, sr. OH; Callie Degnan, jr. OH; Haley Moffett, jr. MB; Ella Peterson, jr. L; Maeve Bergin, fr. S; Anna Crittenden, fr. MB; Natalie Flores, fr. L College commitment: Leddy (New Hampshire)
Worth noting: Although the Red Devils graduated seven, there’s five returning starters plus Bergin in her fourth varsity season and Brooks, Leddy and Quast their third. Leddy was second in assists (383), kills (198) and blocks (34), Bergin (44) and Leddy (42) were 2-3 in aces and Barakat was third in kills (124). Three of seven newcomers are freshmen.
Hinsdale South Hornets
Coach: Ben Goodell
Last season’s record: 16-19, 3-3 in West Suburban Gold (4th); lost to Montini Catholic 25-20, 19-25, 25-18 in 3A Hinsdale South Regional final
Top returning players: Kotryna Melstrad, sr. OH; Maeve Savage, sr. MB; Taryn Bazon, sr. OH; Kaleia Lin, sr. DS; Emily Musil, jr. DS; Paige Lilek, jr. S
Key newcomers: Payton Hallman, jr. DS; Charlotte Cook, jr. OPP; Isabella Fararre, fr. MB College commitment: Melstrad (Nova Southeastern)
Worth noting: Fourth-year standout Melstrad is among several key returnees reloading the Hornets after 11 seniors graduated. The 6-0 Melstrad was IVCA 3A second-team all-state and All-WSC Gold for the second time after team highs of 314 kills, 206 digs and 55 aces. The 5-10 Savage (team-high 38 blocks, 81 kills) and Bazon (75 kills, 53 digs) also started.
IC Catholic Prep Knights
Coach: Karen Russ (1st season)
Last year’s record: 23-15
Top returning players: Mary Kate Hilgart (5-9, sr., S), Alli Keenan (5-8, sr., OH), Jade Dimitrakos (5-7, jr., OH), Aniella Talluto (5-10, sr., MB), Julia Guttilla (sr., DS), Hannah Cira (sr, DS), Lexi Hoffman (sr., S-DS), Angelina Alaimo (sr., DS)
Key newcomers: Meggie Googin (5-9, fresh., MB), Mary Hill (5-10, jr., RS), Mia Leischner (soph.), Libby Phillips (soph.).
Worth noting: Russ has been part of the ICCP program, coaching all levels, including varsity assistant, for the past 32 years. The Knights graduated 6 starters and have 7 senior returning players. Russ said ICCP will be challenged in the Girls Catholic Athletic White Division that includes Mother McAuley, St. Ignatius, Montini, St. Laurence and St. Francis. “We will have to work hard for every point,” she said. “If we play the defense our program is built on, it will be difficult for teams to get points.”
Lake Park Lancers
Coach: Brett Anetsberger (1st season)
Last year’s record: 16-20, 2-5 (6th DuKane)
Top returning players: Amirah Dyer (5-10, sr., OH), Addison Norberg (5-7, jr., S)
Key newcomers: Makenna Townsend (5-8, soph., OH), Evelyn Voytek (5-8, fresh., S)
Worth noting: Anetsberger takes over the Lake Park program after serving as JV and varsity assistant for the last 3 years. He also coaches in the Lake Park boys program. Dyer, one of the few returning varsity starters, posted 167 kills, 163 digs and 39 aces last year, while Norberg had 144 assists and 21 aces. The Lancers needed to fill 5 positions left by graduating seniors. “Fortunately, we have several young, talented individuals eager to take on the challenge,” Anetsberger said. “They are committed to overcoming obstacles to building a stronger future for this program.” Norberg and Voytek give the Lancers 2 strong setters “who can move the ball around at a quick tempo,” Anetsberger said. “These setters have many powerful weapons who will be able to put the ball away.” Passing and serve-receive have been big defensive focuses so far. “I believe we have the right individuals to help improve these aspects,” Anetsberger said. Townsend, Anetsberger noted, has made great progress after limited varsity time in 2024. Voytek, he added, also has a bright future. “Her presence in the gym has already made a big impact,” Anetsberger said. “We are excited to see her continue to grow and do great things.” The coach said St. Charles North, with a lot of talent returning, is a team to watch in the DuKane.
Lisle Lions
Coach: Payton Litney (2nd season)
Last year’s record: 17-16, 6-8 (6th Illinois Central Eight)
Top returning players: Anna Gorzkowski (5-8 sr., S), Brooklyn Burton (6-0, sr., OH), Sophia Harer (5-8, sr., OH), Emily Staley (6-2, jr., MB)
Key newcomers: Kendall Kolff (5-10, sr., OH), Alaina Schroeder (6-0, soph., MB)
Worth noting: Gorzkowski, a returning captain, was all-ICE conference last year after logging 459 assists and 55 aces. “Anna has been leading the Lisle offense beautifully the last few seasons,” Litney said. “She has great connections with her hitters and is a strong defender and lethal from the service line.” Burton had 111 kills and 135 digs, while Harer had 88 kills and 88 digs and was all-tournament at Wilmington. Staley added 73 kills a year ago. “We have a senior-heavy team with many who are 4-year varsity starters,” Litney said. “I am excited to see the depth they can push their team chemistry to this season. We also have many 6-rotation players who strengthen our attacking options.” Litney expects Kolff to have a breakout season after putting in plenty of work in the offseason. Burton is a 4-year varsity player, who possesses “a drive and dedication that has a huge impact on our team dynamic,” Litney said. “She has been a critical piece to our offense.” Conference-wise, Litney said the ICE has a strong senior class with Manteno, Wilmington and Coal City expected to be tough matches.
Metea Valley Mustangs
Coach: Dave MacDonald (13th season)
Last year’s record: 28-9, 8-2 (DuPage Valley champions), Class 4A regional champions
Top returning players: Olivia Stewart (6-1, sr., MB), Ashley Ward (5-9, sr., S), Ava Guzaski (5-7, sr., libero)
Key newcomers: Alana Schille (6-1, soph., RS-S), Katie Wagner (5-10, soph., OH), Ishana Harish (5-10, soph., OH), Sienna Bialek (5-0, jr., DS)
Worth noting: Metea has 3 all-DVC players back in Stewart (committed to Division I Eastern Michigan), Ward and Guzaski. Stewart also was a 2024 all-area selection. “Our strength will be our defense,” MacDonald said. “We do not have the tall put-away players we have had in the past, but we have added a lot of girls who are fundamentally sound in both serve-receive and defense.” Guzaski is back at libero, while Stewart is back in the middle after suffering an ankle injury during the playoffs. Ward will play all 6 rotations as setter this year, MacDonald noted. MacDonald said the Mustangs are much more versatile and dynamic on offense. “We have a lot girls who have the ability to put balls away at different attacking areas.” MacDonald also is high on sophomores Wagner (shot selections and defense on the pin) and Schille (transferred last year before end of first semester). “Katie did not shy away from the varsity competition she saw this summer,” he said. “Alana is a strong opposite-setter who will see a lot of time on the court. She has done a great job challenging our summer opponents at the net.” Junior Raina Parekh stepped in for Stewart after she was injured. “Raina worked hard this club season and continues to improve at the middle position,” MacDonald said. On the DVC front, MacDonald puts Naperville North as the preseason favorite and said DeKalb and Neuqua Valley, young last year, might surprise teams. “We hope to be at the top again,” he said. “Naperville North has some returning pieces that, in my mind, puts them as the favorite.”
Montini Broncos
Coach: Erik Vogt
Last year’s record: 14-21, 2-4 Girls Catholic Athletic White; Class 3A regional champions
Top returning players: Micaela Haggerty (5-7, soph., OH), Hope Garland (5-7, libero), Morah Quirk (6-0, MB), Francesca Lorenzo (6-0, OH), Saniyah Abrams (5-11, OH)
Key newcomers: Victoria Reed (5-7 fresh., OH), Paige Pittman (5-11, fresh., MB), Avalyn DeKeyser (5-9, jr., S)
Worth noting: “We have a lot of experience now after most of this team played together as freshmen and sophomores,” Vogt said. “We have multiple positions where players are competing for playing time, which is great.” Haggerty (84 kills, 46 digs), Garland (192 digs), Quirk (95 kills, 66 blocks), Lorenzo (129 kills, 36 blocks), Abrams (46 kills, 29 blocks) all contributed last season. Lorezno is committed to Division I Illinois-Chicago. Dekayser is a transfer from Lincoln-Way East. “We could run a 5-1 or 6-2 and we should be able to run fast and set any position,” Vogt said. “We will be difficult to scout since any player will have the ability to score.” Vogt said Garland has been looking strong in the back court, while Quirk is poised to have a stellar year in the middle, while transfer DeKayser “can do it all as a setter and a hitter,” he noted. Vogt also is looking for Lorenzo to have a strong season. “Francesca is ready to be a big leader on the court,” he said.
Naperville Central Redhawks
Coach: Eric Kaisling (1st season)
Last year’s record: 23-12, 2nd DuPage Valley
Top returning players: Caroline Impey (5-9, sr., OH), Sophia Svingen (6-0, sr., RS), Annabelle Kritzer (6-4, jr., MB)
Key newcomers: Alex Novak (5-6, jr., S), Kaylee Buda (5-2, jr., DS)
Worth noting: Kaisling is in his first season as girls varsity coach, but was an assistant in the program the previous 21 years (18 at sophomore level and 3 at JV). Impey has committed to play at Division II Lewis University in Romeoville. “We will be scrappy on defense. We go for every ball and lay out to keep it alive,” Kaisling said. “The girls’ relentless drive to keep the ball alive will keep us in every match. We will also have a balanced attack with experience across the front row. That experience lets us mix up our offense in both serve-receive, in transition and with free-ball offense.” Novak is making the jump from the sophomore team to lead the offense with Impey being a go-to hitter and 6-rotation player. Kaisling said Svingen will be an offensive force on the right side and “is going to provide us with a big block,” he said.
Naperville North Huskies
Coach: Nate Bornancin (1st season)
Last year’s record: 20-16, 6-4 (3rd DuPage Valley)
Top returning players: Joelle Pye-Blacknard (5-10, jr., OH), Grace Anderson (5-10, jr., S), Jessica Dickow (6-0, sr., MB), Ennette Bednarz (5-5, sr., libero), Elle Smith (5-5, sr., libero)
Key newcomers: Emma Chang (5-10, jr., OH), Cate Provenzano (6-0, sr., MB), Kristen Anderson (5-8, jr., RS)
Worth noting: Bornancin has spent 13 seasons as North’s boys volleyball head coach where his squads enjoyed notable success (3 regional titles, 1 sectional crown and a 2011 state runner-up finish). Pye-Blacknard was an all-DVC pick after registering 241 kills, 159 digs and 37 aces. Bednarz posted 312 digs and 41 aces last year, while Anderson (308 assists, 81 digs), Dickow (57 kills, 37 blocks) and Smith (88 digs) also were strong contributors. “We are looking to bounce back after an uncharacteristic season last year,” Bornancin said. North has 5 starters back, including an outside, a top middle, 2 defenders and its setter. “This group is already building great chemistry, showing up early and leaving late,” Bornancin said. “It’s obvious last year’s underclassmen put in a lot of work in the offseason to improve the overall varsity lineup. With the return of all our best defenders and improved serve-receive, we are looking to grind out wins.” The Huskies took third in the York summer league in July. Interesting Huskies notes: Grace and Kristen Anderson are twins, while Cate Provenzano is a twin as well, but her sister retired from volleyball this season to focus on club soccer. Chang is a triplet, but her siblings do not play volleyball. Bednarz plays lacrosse, while Bornancin has known 5-11 junior middle Karolina Bilvinaite since she was 6 (he was her first-grade teacher).
Neuqua Valley Wildcats
Coach: Jamie Buhnerkemper (4th season)
Last year’s record: 7-28, 1-8 DuPage Valley
Top returning players: Tatum Kelly (soph., S), Ella Cole (sr., MB), Addison Frisby (sr., MB)
Key newcomers: Alex Durkin (soph., OH)
Worth noting: Kelly was injured last year and is back as a 6-rotation starter. She’s a Division I prospect who has been at prospect camps hosted by the likes of Louisville and USC, Buhnerkemper noted. Neuqua returns 6 varsity players. “We are looking forward to a fresh start after a challenging year marked by injuries and lineup adjustments,” Buhnerkemper said. “With a stronger, healthier roster, the team is ready to compete with renewed energy and focus.” Cole and Frisby lead the way as returning senior middles, “whose experience and presence at the net will anchor both the offense and defense,” Buhnerkemper said. Senior outside Annamaria Aldea adds leadership and consistency, setting the tone for the team on and off the court, the coach added. The ability of sophomore setters Kelly and Seanna Larbi, Buhnerkemper explained, to run a balanced offense will be key to the Wildcats’ success. “With a blend of seasoned leaders and promising underclassmen, we are determined to bounce back, build team chemistry and make a strong push this year,” Buhnerkemper said.
St. Francis Spartans
Coach: Lisa Ston (10th season)
Last year’s record: 27-13, 5-3 (4th Girls Catholic Athletic White), Class 3A sectional champions
Top returning players: Mackenzie Krzus (5-10, sr., S-RS), Addi Samolinski (5-3, libero)
Key newcomers: Grace Grover (5-10, jr., MB), Holly Museinga (5-10, jr., RS)
Worth noting: Krzus was an all-GCAC White pick from last year’s 3A final eight team, and is committed to Division I George Washington in Washington, D.C., while Samolinski, the anchor of the St. Francis defense, is committed to Division I Central Michigan. “We are excited to see this group come together under the leadership of Mackenzie Krzus,” said Ston, in her 26th season overall in the program. “It will be fun to watch them develop chemistry and learn to compete as one unit. This year’s team is driven to be successful and motivated to be highly competitive in every match. Our team has a great mix of experienced returners and enthusiastic newcomers who will make an immediate impact in a variety of ways. These girls are prepared to rise to the challenge, fully aware of what it takes to succeed.” Versatility and setters who distribute the ball well are strengths on offense, Ston noted, while Spartan passers are working hard on communication to cover as much court as possible and touching as many balls as possible on defense, she explained. Newcomer Grover, Ston noted, will be effective in scoring in the middle. Ston listed Mother McAuley, St. Ignatius and DePaul College Prep as tough conference matchups. “The GCAC is always a competitive conference,” she said.
Timothy Christian Trojans
Coach: Scott Piersma (13th season)
Last year’s record: 39-3, 10-0 (Chicagoland Christian regular season and tournament champions, third place Class 2A.
Top returning players: Bella Potempa (5-7, sr., OH), Ella Rickert (6-1, sr., MB), Elizabeth Alex (5-10, sr., S), Audrey Williams (5-11, jr., MB)
Key newcomers: Kate Vogelzang (5-5, jr., libero), Mia Van Hekken (5-8, soph., OH)
Worth noting: For Timothy, it’s life after Vander Wal, as in University of Texas freshman Abby Vander Wal, who played a key role for the Trojans in recent years and helped them finish third in the state last season. However, the Trojans are far from downtrodden. Potempa (236 kills, 189 digs, 69 aces) was a Class 2A second-team all-state pick and along with Rickert (187 kills, 52 blocks, 22 aces) earned all-CCC honors. Alex (834 assists, 138 digs) and Williams (133 kills, 38 blocks) also were key contributors. Potempa has committed to Division I Tennessee Tech, while Rickert is committed to Division II Cedarville University. “We should be great offensively again,” Piersma said. “Returning Elizabeth Alex, our setter from last year, already puts us a step ahead offensively. It’s hard to overstate how important it is to return a setter who knows her hitters and the offense. We also bring back 3 of our top 4 hitters and fill in the graduated positions with girls ready for varsity play. This should allow us to keep other teams on their heels defensively with all the different options we have and different looks we can show.” Potempa, at 5-7, has the highest vertical on the team. “She is ready to take over the No. 1 hitter option after adding a few more shots to her arsenal.” Piersma said Chicago Christian and Wheaton Academy will be challengers in the CCC with Timothy looking for a third league crown in a row.
Waubonsie Valley Warriors
Coach: Noel Soto (1st season)
Last year’s record: 19-17, 6-4 DuPage Valley
Top returning players: Olivia O’Hara (5-9, sr., S), Chloe Gollaher (5-7, sr., OH), Hailee Pietryk (5-7, sr., DS-libero), Anna Axelsen (6-0, jr., MB)
Key newcomers: Addilyn Candrian (5-11, jr., RS), Alexa Alvarado (5-6, jr., DS-libero)
Worth noting: Soto, one of multiple new girls head coaches in the county, has been coaching the Waubonsie boys program for the last 13 years. “We are going to be solid all the way around with everyone contributing,” Soto said. “Our setters do a great job running our offense and getting everyone involved. Opponents will not be able to focus on one player. I really like the communication on the court. The focus on being solid at passing to be able to run our offense.” Gollaher is a 6-rotation player, while O’Hara will quarterback the offense at setter and Pietryk will lead the defense at libero. “All three are seniors and great leaders on the team,” Soto said. Soto noted the DuPage Valley has plenty of quality teams. “The DVC is a strong conference and each team will be a tough opponent,” he said. “We will look to be very competitive and look to challenge for the conference title.”
Westmont Sentinels
Coach: Jason Gentile (3rd season)
Last year’s record: 23-11, 10-0 (Chicago Prep champions)
Top returning players: Kotryna Vanagas (5-10, jr., OH), Alice O’Connor (5-6, jr., OH), Ryley Johnson (5-7, jr., S), Kallie Niemer (5-10, sr., MB), Daylah Belmonte (5-3, sr., libero)
Key newcomers: Layal Bunch (5-9, jr., OH), Grace Shannon (5-8, jr., MB), Gwyneth Jindra (5-8, soph., S-RS)
Worth noting: Westmont is fresh off running the table and winning the Chicago Prep league title and returns a good amount of experience in Vanagas (221 kills, 206 digs, 49 aces), O’Connor (129 digs, 48 kills, 33 aces), Johnson (152 assists, 20 kills), Niemer (42 kills) and Belmonte (57 digs). “The team’s strength this year will be our offense and commitment to playing hard together,” Gentile said. “We have a talented group of athletes that is committed to being the best version of themselves. They strive hard to achieve the most they can and have a high belief in each other. What I like about of offense is the variety we will be able to use. We have high talent on each pin and riding talent in the middle. We also will be able to utilize our back row to provide multiple offensive options. Our serve-receive will be centered around a relentless attitude to fight for every ball. Our energy will come from the defensive side that we will turn into offensive points,” Gentile said Johnson is taking the next step forward at setter, while Bunch will provide scoring and strong blocking on the pin. He added Vanagas has the opportunity to grow into an all-area/all-state player. “She has the power and volleyball IQ to develop into a true impact player,” Gentile said. In the Chicago Prep, Gentile said Walther Christian and Chicago Cristo Rey Jesuit will be teams to keep an eye on.
Wheaton North Falcons
Last season’s record: 20-17, 4-3 in DuKane (tied for 3rd); lost to St. Charles North 25-19, 25-15 in 4A Lake Park regional final
Top returning players: Mary Kate Whittington, sr. P; Abby Lee, sr. DS; Haley Hanavan, sr. P; Emily Rochford, jr. S; Addison Clausing, so. MH; Hannah Van Denend, sr. MH; Ava Schell, sr. P; Sophia Ohashi, sr. S Key newcomers: Anna Marchis, jr. OH; Sophia Benson, sr. DS; Kate Kluckman, so. P; Claire Roekle, sr. S; Kaylie Arredondo, sr. DS; Olivia Stoner, sr. MH
Worth noting: The Falcons reached the 20-win mark last season and now pursue their first regional title since 2017. Lee (team-high 233 digs and 441 serve receptions) and Rochford (team-high 294 digs) were 2024 honorable mention All-DKC. The 6-0 Whittington was third in kills (137 kills) and the 6-1 Clausing second in blocks (52) as a freshman. Following her strong offseason, Marchis will keep the two-setter offense intact.
Wheaton Warrenville South Tigers
Coach: Bill Schreier
Last season’s record: 25-13, 4-3 in DuKane Conference (tied for 3rd); lost to Benet 25-14, 25-14 in 4A West Aurora sectional semifinals
Top returning players: Katie Dragas, sr. MH; Kayla Paige, sr. L; Zoe Dragas, sr. OPP; Alison Coyne, so. S; Audrey Utz, sr. S; Mackenzie Hartman, sr. OH; Eva Feeley, jr. MH; Willow Boecker, jr. MH; Nicole McPheters, sr. DS/L
Key newcomers: Khloe Dudick, jr. OH; Lina Mieliauskaite, fr. S
Worth noting: The Tigers have another veteran group from back-to-back regional champions fueled by third-year starters Katie Dragas and Paige and second-year starters Zoe Dragas, Coyne, Utz and Hartman. “We should be solid in ball control and defense and are excited about the new parts that we have added offensively,” responded Schreier, who has 539 victories entering his 25th season. The 6-1 Katie Dragas was All-DKC in 2024 and Zoe Dragas received honorable mention. Captains Katie Dragas, Paige and Coyne respectively received 2024 team awards for top blocker, top defensive player and most improved. Freshman Mieliauskaite is among nine Tigers at least 5-10.
Willowbrook Warriors
Coach: Irene Mason
Last season’s record: 29-8, 5-1 in West Suburban Gold (2nd); lost to Downers Grove South 21-25, 25-23, 25-17 in 4A Whitney Young regional final
Top returning players: Julia Amin, sr. MB; Maggie Hurley, jr. MB; Kendall Norton, sr. S; Melanie Marinier, jr. DS/L/S; Joely Maciejewski, sr. OH/RS
Key newcomers: Tess Doyle, jr. DS/L; Evelyn Lammers, fr. OH/RS; Darcy Hurley, fr. OH/RS; Lucy Franz, fr. S/RS
Worth noting: The Warriors return four starters but graduated 10 seniors, many of whom contributed to three regionals in four seasons and third in 4A in 2023.“ Although we have many new faces, our intensity and mission have not changed,” Mason said. Last season, Amin (62) and Maggie Hurley (37) were 1-2 in total blocks, Marinier was second in digs (185), Norton was second in assists (339) and Maggie Hurley and Norton shared third in aces (32). Marinier moves from libero to setter. Transfer Doyle and three freshmen are among varsity newcomers.
York Dukes
Coach: Danny Piwowarczyk
2024 results: 26-12, 3-3 in West Suburban Silver (tied for 3rd); lost to Downers Grove South 25-16, 25-15 in 4A Willowbrook Sectional semifinals
Top returning players: Katie Day, sr. OPP/OH 5′11; Amalia Toliopoulos, sr. S/OPP 5′10; Lila Bennis 5′7, so. L/DS; Eileen Carroll, so. OH/OPP 5′8; Reese Timmerwilke, sr. MH/OPP 5′11; Audrey Faley, sr. MH/OPP 5′11; Allison Fehlberg, sr. L/DS; Emma Braathen, jr. DS; Madelene Braathen, jr. S/DS
Key newcomer: Ariella Villatoro Nevarez, jr. OPP
Worth noting: The Dukes want to build upon the success of three straight 20-win seasons with two regional titles. There’s six returning starters with Day (team-high 291 kills, 180 digs), who was 2024 IVCA 4A honorable mention all-state, and All-WSC Silver Toliopoulos (team-best 442 assists, 36 aces, 137 digs) in their fourth varsity seasons. Faley had a team-high 47 blocks and as freshmen Bennis (45 aces) and Carroll (186 kills) ranked second in categories. Toliopoulos will run a one- or two-setter offense with Carroll becoming a full-rotation outside hitter. “If we find a way to fit the pieces together in the right way, this could be a very special season,” Piwowarczyk said.
– Bill Stone from Shaw Local News Network contributed to this preview